Scott rented one unit of a triplex on Montgomery Avenue that caught fire shortly before 9 a.m. Friday. Her apartment was destroyed.

The other tenants also received Red Cross assistance. They have found places, even if temporary, to relocate.

Not Scott.

"The kids don't have anything," she said Monday. "They're used to playing in their room or going outside. We have nothing. Even the stuff that didn't burn has smoke damage, and the Fire Department said we can't use it."

Her three children are Royal Scott, 3; Richard Shearer Jr., 2; and Jack Scott IV, who is 7 months old.

The Red Cross is trying to help.

"We are working with the victims to help them find longer-term arrangements through other agencies," said Kathleen Weis, Sacramento-based spokeswoman for the Red Cross.

"We're trying to do the best we can."

Weis said the agency is unable to set up separate funds for all those it helps in emergencies.

"My most pressing need is a place to stay," Scott said. "I don't know how Christmas will go. I'm just hoping God will bless me with some kind of Christmas."

For those who want to help, Stockton resident Mary Scott can be reached at (209) 450-1935.